Although the dinner service was designed for state banquets, it was not acquired in 1897 by the Government of Canada for Rideau Hall, as the the Women's Art Association of Canada had hoped. Instead, it was purchased through private subscription in 1898 by individual members of the Senate and the House of Commons. Renamed "The Canadian Historical Dinner Service," it was formally presented to Lady Aberdeen as a gift from members of the Senate and the House of Commons.

Presentation of the "splendid gift" took place on June 13, 1898, in the Senate Chamber after the prorogation of Parliament ending Lord Aberdeen's term as Governor General.